CM Sukhu chaired a meeting of the State Level Vigilance and Monitoring Committee constituted under the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955 and Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. The meeting, held after a gap of 11 years, discussed various issues concerning the welfare and protection of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in the state.
The Chief Minister said that these laws reflect the vision of social justice envisaged by the Congress Party and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution. He emphasized that the state government was implementing these Acts effectively to promote equality and harmony. To strengthen administrative coordination, the Additional Chief Secretary (Social Justice & Empowerment) has been designated as the Nodal Officer.
Sukhu stated that inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals of equality, the government is working with sensitivity and commitment toward the upliftment of Scheduled Castes. He noted that cases of untouchability have significantly declined in Himachal Pradesh, and the government ensures strict action in all reported incidents.
In the past three years, around ₹7.35 crore has been provided as rehabilitation assistance to 1,200 victims, while 45,238 victims have received free legal aid through the State Legal Services Authority.
Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Dr. (Col.) Dhani Ram Shandil informed that 25.19% of the state’s population belongs to the Scheduled Castes and reiterated the government’s resolve to ensure their welfare through employment reservation and social security schemes.
He added that under Articles 15, 16 and 17 of the Constitution, caste-based discrimination and untouchability are punishable offences, and the law provides for stringent punishment and fines for violators.
